A CATALOGUE of building defects at Skipton Town Hall must be put right if the building is to serve the district in future years.

An inspection of the premises earlier this year highlighted a number of problems, and Craven District councillors must now decide what to tackle next.

In a report to the finance and property committee, property manager Michael Birdsall commented: "Overall, Skipton Town Hall has many building defects.

"The property could be substantially improved, at a cost, to provide much better facilities for both the public, office users, the town council, the museum and hirers of the annex and the main hall."

Councillors were told how the town hall kitchen required complete refurbishment, and agreed that this should be the first priority.

Other priorities include removing "trip hazards", including repairs to the Council Chamber carpet which was badly worn and frayed, and improving the pigeon netting.

Not only would this stop pigeon droppings spoiling the pavements around the town hall, it would also reduce the problems of roof leaks resulting from dead pigeons blocking the rainwater pipes.

Other problems outlined in Mr Birdsall's report - many based on the views of town hall users - include a number of repair and maintenance matters such as re-pointing, damp proofing and cleaning external walls, monitoring and repairing cracks, repairing windows, strengthening joists, external and internal painting and replacing carpets.

The stage in the main hall was described as old-fashioned with old, inadequate lighting and sound systems, poor curtains, and uncomfortable chairs which squeaked during performances.

The front entrance led the public through corridors with "arguably questionable decor" while the rear entrance brought visitors through a "scruffy" lobby area.

"Once the theatre-goer is in the main hall, the hall does not create a good impression as the room is in need of redecoration and tidying," continued Mr Birdsall.

"The wall lights are in poor aesthetic order, the woodwork to the front of the stage is badly damaged and there are numerous other minor faults. The acoustics are also poor."

The Craven Museum, which is based in the town hall, was described as a "poor facility with poor access" and the location meant many people were not aware of its existence. There was also poor quality damp storage.

Other work which must be carried out includes upgrading all staircases, so the height of the balustrades and handrails comply with current standards, and improving disabled access by providing a lift to access all floors under the Disability Discrimination Act.

In conclusion, Mr Birdsall reported: "The property has been greatly improved over the last 18 months, including new roofs to most areas (although the museum roof will require attention in the short/medium term), a new boiler, new heating systems, improved office layout, upgraded emergency lighting etc.

"Nevertheless, there remain many further improvements to ensure the property is fit for the purpose in future. The property is of an age whereby maintenance costs can be expected to be high."

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.